LightHouse for the Blind's New New Website is a Model for Usability

LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired, a non-profit headquartered in San Francisco, California, launched its completely redesigned and fully accessible website: www.lighthouse-sf.org. The new site closes the gap between easy navigability for blind and visually impaired users and visually appealing content.

San Francisco-based consultants Allen Ashton of Ashton Abeck and Brian McNitt of TrendMedia were enlisted to customize a site that would streamline business processes yet conform to stringent accessibility requirements. The design and engineering duo created the new LightHouse site to exceed key accessibility standards, while the LightHouse team provided concise, organized content to engage the full range of blind and visually impaired users coming to the site.

People who are blind access the Internet by using screen-reading software such as JAWS. But many websites do not take into account blind visitors and customers. For example, photos and graphics that are not labeled and Flash clips may be totally inaccessible.

"Accessibility and usability are two different things. Put it this way: you can technically make a building accessible by putting in a water fountain that's the right height and restrooms that are wide enough for someone using a wheelchair. But if you put those things on the 10th floor with no elevator, the building isn't really usable." said McNitt.

The new LightHouse website allows JAWS screen reader user and LightHouse tech associate Shen Kuan to navigate directly to a heading, like the Main Navigation bar or the search tool, to find information on local happenings “like tandem bicycling or Goalball events.”

Other features for low vision users include high contrast text and page colors, and the ability to modify text size and contrast. User-controlled display options “remember” an individual’s display preferences, making the LightHouse site a friendly place to return to again and again.

The LightHouse promotes the independence, equality and self-reliance of people who are blind or visually impaired through rehabilitation training and relevant services, such as access to employment, education, government, information, recreation, transportation and the environment. For more information, call 1-888-400-8933 or visit www.lighthouse-sf.org.